Boil Water Notice in Effect After Major Oldsmar Water Main Break
The City of Oldsmar has issued an urgent precautionary boil water notice after a significant water main break severely disrupted water service across the city. Residents and businesses are advised to boil all tap water used for drinking, cooking, and hygiene until further notice.
Officials confirm water pressure is currently low to nonexistent as repair crews work around the clock to fix the damaged main. The boil water advisory affects all properties served by the city and is expected to remain in place for at least 48 hours.
Critical Safety Measures for Residents and Businesses
The City warns that all water for drinking, making ice, preparing baby formula, cooking, or brushing teeth must be vigorously boiled for at least one full minute before use. The water should be brought to a rolling boil where steady bubbles continuously rise from the bottom of the pot. Bottled water is also recommended as a safe alternative.
Officials emphasize that showering and bathing remain safe, but residents must avoid swallowing tap water during these activities. Individuals with compromised immune systems, recent surgery, or chronic illness should consider using boiled or bottled water for cleansing until the notice is lifted.
Business owners are urged to disable drinking fountains and ice machines immediately and to use commercially bottled water for all beverage needs. Food service operations must follow additional guidelines mandated by their regulatory agencies.
Why This Boil Water Notice Was Issued
Water main breaks can cause a drop in water pressure, which increases the risk of contaminants entering the potable water system. The notice does not confirm contamination but is a precaution until bacteriological testing ensures safety.
“We take great care in assuring your water is safe to drink, and we appreciate the public’s cooperation during this emergency,” said a City of Oldsmar Water Division spokesperson.
What to Expect Next
Once the water main is repaired and normal pressure restored, the city will conduct rigorous water quality testing. The boil water advisory will only be lifted after tests confirm the water meets all safety standards. The City will notify residents through automated calls, social media, and official websites when the notice is officially rescinded.
Residents can register for emergency alerts via the Alert Pinellas system to receive real-time updates on water status and other emergencies by signing up at pinellas.gov/alert-pinellas/ or by calling 813-749-1226.
Additional Guidance During the Advisory
- Use hot, soapy water to hand wash dishes; rinse with boiled water. Dishwashers with sanitizing cycles are acceptable.
- Wash fruits and vegetables only with boiled or bottled water.
- Ice made prior to the pressure drop remains safe; all ice makers should be turned off during the notice.
- Watering lawns and gardens with tap water is allowed, but produce must be washed separately with boiled or bottled water.
- Water filtration or softening systems do not protect against microorganisms and should not replace boiling.
City Contact & Resources
For questions about this boil water notice or to register for emergency alerts, residents should contact the City of Oldsmar Water Division at 813-749-1226. For general water quality questions, call the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-800-426-4791. Food service businesses should reach out to the Florida Department of Health for compliance guidance.
This developing situation affects the immediate Oldsmar area only. Neighboring communities such as Eastlake Woodlands and Hillsborough County are not impacted.
The City urges residents to conserve water usage during repairs and follow all precautionary guidelines to protect public health until the advisory is lifted.
